Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:40 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Explore contrasts between Highland Park 12 vs Oban 14 in-depth and decide your preferred Single Malt!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Highland Park 12 vs Oban 14: Comparison
- Highland Park 12: Known for its floral, smoke, and orange notes, offering a subtle peatiness balanced with sweetness. A solid option for those looking for a peated whisky without the intensity of Islay malts, providing a good introduction to smoky whiskies with its unique Orcadian character.
- Oban 14: Delivers a more complex and interesting profile with ripe fruit, orange peel, and a hint of smoke, leading to a creamy palate and a long finish with oak, baking spice, and salt. Appeals to those who value depth and a balance of smoke and sweetness in their whisky, making it a more satisfying choice despite the higher cost.
- Verdict: For those seeking a balanced, smoky yet sweet whisky with more complexity and a fuller body, Oban 14 is the preferred choice, especially for enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for its rich flavor profile. Highland Park 12 remains a commendable and more affordable alternative for those new to smoky whiskies or looking for a gentler introduction to peated Scotch, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Peated Scotch Top Picks
Highland Park 12: Unveiling a Delightfully Smoky Journey
- Nose: Floral, smoke, orange, honey
- Palate: Cereal, orange, green tea, smoke
- Finish: Long, oak, pepper
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Dalmore 12
Aromatic Allure: Highland Park 12 opens with a captivating aroma, blending floral notes with hints of tangy citrus and sweet honey.
Smooth and Sweet on the Palate: The first sip introduces a smooth and sweet character, offering flavors of cereal, orange, and green tea. Subtle smokiness complements the sweetness, along with intriguing hints of iodine and honey. While the body might feel lighter, it remains enjoyable.
Balanced Finish: The whisky concludes with a somewhat sweet and slightly spicy finish, featuring oaky notes. Adding a few drops of water is said to enhance the sweetness, revealing intriguing meaty notes for an even more well-rounded experience.
Peaty Pleasure for Beginners: This expression showcases a balanced peaty flavor, making it approachable for those curious about smoky whiskies. Its subtle smokiness is not overpowering compared to whiskies from Islay, making it a great stepping stone for exploring peaty territory.
A Value Choice: While Highland Park 12 might not offer the intense complexity sought by seasoned drinkers, its well-rounded profile and approachable peaty character, coupled with its moderate price point, make it a solid value for money.
Did you know?
- Highland Park 12 matures in European and American casks previously used for sherry wine, influencing its flavor profile.
- This expression is crafted with no added color, showcasing its natural character.
- Founded in 1798, Highland Park holds the title of Scotland’s northernmost single malt distillery, located in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.
- Currently, Highland Park is part of the Edrington Group, alongside The Macallan, Glenrothes, and The Famous Grouse.
Oban 14: Unveiling a Balanced Smoke and Fruit Symphony
- Nose: Ripe fruit, orange peel, smoke
- Palate: Dried fruit, pear, apple, cinnamon
- Finish: Long, oak, baking spice, salt
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Caol Ila 12
Aroma: Oban 14 opens with a delightful bouquet of ripe fruits, citrus zest, and a subtle whisper of smoke.
Taste: The first sip introduces a creamy texture, followed by flavors of dried fruit, pear, apple, and a touch of baking spices. These sweet notes are beautifully balanced by a gentle smokiness, creating a unique and harmonious experience.
Finish: The whisky concludes with a long and warming finish, featuring oaky notes, lingering baking spices, and a touch of salt for a satisfying closure.
A Delicate Smoke: This expression caters to those who appreciate a hint of smoke without overwhelming intensity. The restrained smokiness complements the fruity sweetness, making it an excellent choice for a balanced and enjoyable dram.
Bourbon Influence: The 14-year aging in ex-bourbon casks infuses the whisky with subtle whiskey-like characteristics, adding another layer of complexity to its profile.
Did you know?
- Oban matures its whisky exclusively in ex-bourbon barrels for 14 years, contributing to its signature flavor profile.
- A touch of caramel coloring is added to achieve a consistent visual appearance, as permitted by UK regulations.
- Oban 14 has received accolades, including a Gold Medal at the 2013 International Wine & Spirit Competition, solidifying its reputation as a well-regarded single malt Scotch.
- Founded in 1794, the Oban distillery boasts a rich history dating back over two centuries.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Highland Park 12 | $60 |
| Oban 14 | $95 |